Summary
Airlines in the United States have had to reduce flights due to the ongoing government shutdown, which is the longest in U.S. history. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has instructed airlines to cut their schedules because of staffing issues, and private jet flights may also face reductions. There are calls for private jet owners to stop flying to help ease congestion in the airspace.
Key Facts
- The U.S. government shutdown is the longest in the nation's history.
- Airlines may need to reduce flights by up to 20% if the shutdown continues.
- The FAA initially asked airlines to cut schedules by 4% to manage safety concerns.
- Cuts affect travel through 40 major U.S. airports.
- Over 700 flight cuts have already happened among the four largest U.S. airlines.
- It's unclear how flight reductions apply to private and charter flights, which contribute very little tax to support airspace operations.
- Advocacy groups are urging private jet owners to pause flights to free up capacity.
- Some commercial flight passengers experience long delays due to a shortage of staff.
